Croatia joins the European Union

On the 1 July 2013, Croatia became the 28th member of the EU after a decade of carrying out all the reforms needed to bring it into line with EU laws and standards.

Croatia will share not only the benefits of EU membership, but also the responsibilities that come with it.

The country takes an equal role in decision making with its 27 EU counterparts. In April 2013, Croatian voters went to the polls to choose 12 members of the European Parliament. The country has also appointed its EU Commissioner, Neven Mimica.

There are benefits for both Croatia and the rest of Europe. It strengthens stability in the entire Western Balkans region. It expands the EU's internal market, along with new opportunities for EU businesses and customers.

In addition, it expands the area where EU standards apply, be it in energy, transport or environmental protection. It also enhances the EU's cultural diversity and human potential, facilitating mobility and exchange opportunities for students and researchers.